Frequently Asked Questions

The Programme

Who attends SnowSkool courses?

Although we are a British company we do tend to get a mixed range of nationalities on each course. Last year, our students hailed from 12 countries across four continents: you’ll always meet Poms, Scots, Welsh and Irish and usually there are some fellow Aussies (and often a Kiwi or two) on our Canadian courses. We also had participants last year from Holland, Italy, Belgium, South Africa, Denmark, the USA and even Chile. And while the majority of participants are young people taking a break from their studies (some straight after school as a gap year, others during or after uni), SnowSkool also attracts people taking time out from their career. Some plan to go back to work afterwards while others use SnowSkool to change direction and work in the Snow-sports industry. The oldest participant ever was 59 at the start of the course and 60 at the end!  This last season, Australia was represented on both ends of the scale – a high school leaver from Queensland at one end and, at the other, a mother of three from Sydney pursuing a lifelong dream to become a ski instructor. Happily, both thoroughly enjoyed themselves and achieved their goals!

Which resort is right for me?

It depends on the length of time you have available, the time of year that suits and your budget. As a rule of thumb, Banff tends to attract younger participants because of its hostel accommodation and vibrant nightlife while Big White, with its ski in / ski out condos and a more independent style of living, tends to attract more more mature travelers – on this course, an average of about 15% of participants are aged over 30.

What level of skier or boarder do I need to be?

We welcome skiers and boarders of all abilities - from beginners to seasoned experts. We are confident that the 25 hours of expert tuition you receive each week in small, similar-ability groups wil allow you all students to reach at least CSIA/ CASI Level 1 or NZ CSI regardless of your ability at the start of the course.

What qualifications will I gain?

In Canada, our skiers work towards the qualifications of the CSIA (Canadian Ski Instructors' Alliance) and snowboarders towards the qualifications of CASI (Canadian Association of Snowboard Instructors). Four qualifications are on offer: Level 1 and Level 2 Instructor, Park & Pipe Coach and Carving/ Race Coach.

In New Zealand, skiers and snowboarders ultimate goal is the NZSIA (New Zealand Snowsport Instructors' Alliance) Stage One Instructor and along the way you will take in the NZ CSI (Certificate of Snowsport Instruction)

What is the pass rate?

We have a pass rate of 100% for CSIA/ CASI Level 1 and NZ CSI and over 90% at CSIA/ CASI Level 2 and NZSIA Stage One.

If I pass, where can I work?

You will pass!!! And when you do, you will be relieved to hear that the qualifications of the CSIA/ CASI and NZSIA are recognised on an international-footing. With your Canadian Level 1 or NZ CSI qualifications you will only be able to work in Canada or New Zealand respectively but with the Canadian Level 2 or NZSIA Stage One, you will be able to work throughout the world. In practice, however, landing a job in France is pretty tough.

Can SnowSkool guarantee me a job as an instructor?

Over the years, SnowSkool has formed close working relationships with Ski & Boards Schools throughout the world and we have former students who have worked in ski resorts in Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Canada, England, New Zealand, Scotland, Switzerland, Wales and the USA. We are therefore very well-placed to help our students find employment as an instructor after the course - BUT CANNOT GIVE AN ABSOLUTE GUARANTEE. The Instructor Recruitment Section of MySkool enables SnowSkool's former students to view instructor vacancies posted by Ski & Board Schools giving them an added advantage in finding their dream job.

Money Matters

What is included in the cost of the course?

Our courses are fully-inclusive and include return flights from the UK. Click here for full details

What is not included?

The only items not included in the price of the course are equipment, insurance, some meals and money for socialising.

Will I need to arrange my own insurance?

Yes, you will need full comprehensive winter sports & travel insurance to join any SnowSkool programme.

Should I buy my equipment in Australia or in resort?

All SnowSkool students will benefit from significant discounts at shops in resort. Therefore it often works out cheaper to wait until you arrive in resort. An added advantage is that, in the unlikely event of any problems with your equipment, goods can be repaired or replaced more easily.

How much spending money will I need for the course?

This obviously varies but a reasonable amount would be around AU$175-200 per week. For example making your own lunch instead of buying it at a mountain restaurant each day will save you a lot of money.

Do I get a season pass?

Yes, all SnowSkool students get a full season pass.

Can I extend my stay in resort?

Yes. Many students like to go out to resort before the course starts or stay longer after the course finishes. We support these decisions and can arrange for accommodation for you during these times.

Restrictions

Will I need a visa to go on a SnowSkool course?

If you are a citizen of the Australia or New Zealand , you will not require a visa to go on a SnowSkool course. If you are not a citizen of the Australia or New Zealand , please click here for more details.

Is there a minimum age?

Yes. In Banff and Cardrona, the minimum age is 17 years at the start of the course. In Big White, the minimum age is 18 years at the start of the course.

Off-snow elements?

What happens in the evenings?

It is entirely your decision. SnowSkool staff will organise a number of activities and it is your choice if you want to take part or not. We organise lots of activities from: indoor football or basketball tournaments, DVD nights, parties, nights on the town, cinema trips, ice skating/ climbing, visit to the hot springs, bingo bowling and much, much more. The SnowSkool staff will soon become your best friends.

What happens at the weekends?

Again, you are at liberty to choose. SnowSkool staff will offer a day trip to another ski hill most weekends or a shopping trip to a nearby town. But most people like to relax, catch up on their food-shopping, laundry or correspondence. Oh and most people sleep a lot!

Can friends and family visit me in resort?

We welcome this although we will consult with you on the time of the proposed visit as we try to ensure your family/ friends avoid visits during crucial training or exam weeks. SnowSkool staff will be more than happy to suggest travel and accommodation options for your visitors and recommend Ski Tours Canada in Sydney to help with travel arrangements.

Can I upgrade my room?

Yes, upgrades are available on all SnowSkool courses although they are given on a first come-first served basis. Click here for more details